If you love seafood that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, you are absolutely going to adore this Garlic and Herb Oven-Baked Cod Cakes Recipe. These cod cakes combine flaky wild-caught cod with fragrant herbs and just the right amount of garlic, all baked to a golden perfection that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. With every bite, you’ll taste the bright freshness of lemon and the comforting warmth of herbs, making it a perfect dish for weeknights or impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your home kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five ingredients on a white marbled surface. On the bottom right, there is a clear glass bowl filled with a white, chunky mixture that looks like shredded fish with a light brown powder sprinkled on top. To the left of this bowl, there is a smaller clear glass bowl holding a bright yellow beaten egg mixture. Above the egg bowl, a whole garlic bulb sits on the surface. Top center left, a small clear glass bowl is filled with fresh green parsley leaves and some dried herbs. To the right of this, another small clear glass bowl contains three different spices: a dark green powder, a bright red powder, and a small amount of white powder. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is at the heart of this delightful recipe. Each element plays a key role—from the flaky cod that provides lean protein and omega-3s to the almond and coconut flours that add texture without gluten. The herbs infuse a fresh, aromatic quality while the garlic brings that essential savory punch that ties everything together.

1 pound wild-caught Cod fillet, skin removed: Use fresh if possible for the best flavor; flaky and mild with a clean taste.
2 large eggs, whisked: These act as a binder to help hold the cakes together perfectly.
⅔ cup fine almond flour: Adds a tender, moist texture while keeping the cakes gluten-free.
2 Tablespoons coconut or oat flour: A small addition to help absorb moisture for a firm patty.
½ teaspoon minced garlic: About two small cloves; essential for that lovely, punchy garlic flavor.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the fish.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat and depth.
¼ teaspoon paprika: Provides color and subtle smoky notes that elevate the dish.
¼ cup finely chopped fresh herbs or ½ Tablespoon dried herbs: Basil, parsley, or oregano are wonderful choices for fresh flavor and aroma.
Avocado, pure olive oil, or refined coconut oil for frying: Neutral oils help crisp the cakes without masking their flavor.
Sauce of choice for serving (optional): Aioli, marinara, or a zesty lemon-herb sauce complement the cod cakes beautifully.
Lemon and additional herbs for garnishing: Brighten up the presentation and add a fresh finishing touch.

How to Make Garlic and Herb Oven-Baked Cod Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

Start by cleaning your cod fillet and shredding it into small pieces. This ensures every bite is filled with tender fish flakes and makes it easier to combine with the other ingredients. Place your shredded cod in a large mixing bowl — this will be the base for your delicious cod cakes.

Step 2: Mix in the Binding Ingredients and Spices

Add the whisked eggs, fine almond flour, coconut or oat flour, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika directly to the bowl with cod. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the mixture is uniform. The flours and eggs act as binders to hold your cakes together while the garlic and spices create a flavor foundation that will shine once baked.

Step 3: Fold in the Herbs and Chill

Now sprinkle in your chosen fresh or dried herbs. Fold these in carefully to preserve their delicate flavor and texture. Once everything is combined, cover the mixture and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This chilling process helps the cakes hold their shape better when baking and enhances the melding of all those lovely garlic and herb notes.

Step 4: Shape the Cod Cakes

After chilling, scoop about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the mixture for each cake. Roll each portion into a ball and gently flatten it into wide patties approximately 2 to 3 inches in diameter. You should end up with 6 to 7 perfectly shaped cod cakes that will bake beautifully and hold together firmly.

Step 5: Bake the Cod Cakes

Preheat your oven and place the cod cakes on a lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for even cooking. Bake them in the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the pan halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and have a golden crust on the outside. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to set up nicely.

How to Serve Garlic and Herb Oven-Baked Cod Cakes Recipe

A close-up view shows a stack of three golden brown crab cakes, each thick and slightly crumbly with visible bits of green herbs and small pieces of crab. The cakes have a rough texture with a light crispy outside and appear to be soft inside. To the left of the stack is a bright yellow lemon wedge, and to the right are fresh green herb leaves. All items rest on a white marbled surface, all under soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped herbs like parsley or basil bring brightness and color that contrast beautifully with the warm tones of the baked cod cakes. A drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or a dollop of aioli can add a luxurious touch and enhance the garlic and herb flavors further.

Side Dishes

Pair these cod cakes with fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. For something lighter, steamed asparagus or a zesty quinoa salad complements the delicate fish perfectly, while coleslaw adds a crisp contrast in texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual lunch, serve these cod cakes stacked with fresh tomato slices and lettuce on a gluten-free bun for a seafood burger twist. At a dinner party, arrange them elegantly on a platter with herb sprigs and lemon wedges for guests to serve themselves, or create bite-sized appetizers by cutting the cakes smaller and serving with a variety of dipping sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cod cakes are fantastic and store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled allows the flavors to deepen even more, and they’re easy to reheat quickly whenever hunger strikes.

Freezing

If you want to save your cod cakes for longer, freeze them after shaping but before baking. Place them on a lined tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To keep your cod cakes crispy and fresh-tasting, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy. If you’re short on time, a quick crisp-up in a hot skillet with a little oil works just as beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other fish instead of cod?

Absolutely! If cod is hard to find, try using fresh halibut or good-quality canned tuna. The texture and baking times might vary slightly, so always check for an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure safety and optimal doneness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Garlic and Herb Oven-Baked Cod Cakes Recipe is naturally gluten-free by using almond and coconut or oat flour instead of traditional wheat flour. Just be sure to check your oat flour is certified gluten-free if you have celiac concerns.

Can I prepare the mixture in advance?

You can definitely prepare the cod mixture up to a day ahead. Keep it covered tightly in the fridge, then shape and bake right before you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness and flavor.

What health benefits do cod cakes offer?

Cod is a lean fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making these cod cakes a nutritious choice. By baking instead of frying, you keep the fat content lower while still enjoying a satisfying crispy exterior.

How do I know when the cod cakes are cooked through?

The best way is to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The cakes should be golden on the outside, firm to the touch, and flake easily in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, bake until browned and cooked for the suggested time as a reliable guideline.

Final Thoughts

There’s so much to love about this Garlic and Herb Oven-Baked Cod Cakes Recipe — from the simple, wholesome ingredients to the incredible burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a dish that feels special but comes together effortlessly, perfect for treating yourself or impressing your friends. Give it a try soon, and I guarantee these cod cakes will become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.